Autism Counselling in Dagenham

Photo of Nomhlekhabo Martha Shongwe, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nomhlekhabo Martha Shongwe
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Dagenham RM10
Many families experiencing child violence find that they have become increasingly isolated and silent about what is happening. Breaking this silence is by involving supporters as a respectful and sensitive way to address the issue. Are you struggling with your child's behavior? do you find it challenging to stand firm against physical or verbal violence due to a lack of understanding of Autism, mental health, or other factors such cultural or religious belief? Additionally, are you struggling with your parenting style.
Many families experiencing child violence find that they have become increasingly isolated and silent about what is happening. Breaking this silence is by involving supporters as a respectful and sensitive way to address the issue. Are you struggling with your child's behavior? do you find it challenging to stand firm against physical or verbal violence due to a lack of understanding of Autism, mental health, or other factors such cultural or religious belief? Additionally, are you struggling with your parenting style.
020 4572 0557 View 020 4572 0557
Photo of Marian Claudiu Ciuhan - Psiholog Roman - Marian Claudiu Ciuhan - P.C.C, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Psiholog Roman - Marian Claudiu Ciuhan - P.C.C
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Dagenham RM8
At Pro Comfort Counselling (P.C.C), step into a realm where family complexities and relationship intricacies find understanding and transformation. In the face of challenges like family conflicts, ADHD, and substance abuse, envision a guide specializing in Family and Couples Therapy - someone attuned to your unique journey. I am that guide, offering more than expertise; I offer a compassionate partnership. As a psychologist skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy, I invite you to embark on a transformative journey. Change is possible—let's start the journey together.
At Pro Comfort Counselling (P.C.C), step into a realm where family complexities and relationship intricacies find understanding and transformation. In the face of challenges like family conflicts, ADHD, and substance abuse, envision a guide specializing in Family and Couples Therapy - someone attuned to your unique journey. I am that guide, offering more than expertise; I offer a compassionate partnership. As a psychologist skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy, I invite you to embark on a transformative journey. Change is possible—let's start the journey together.
07480 789942 View 07480 789942
Photo of Jodie Marie Brien, MBACP, Counsellor
Jodie Marie Brien
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Dagenham RM8
My name is Jodie, I am a fully qualified, trained integrative Therapeutic Counsellor. I have experience working with Trauma, Anxiety disorders, Neurodiversity, LGBTQ+, Couples and various mental health issues. My passion is collaborating with my clients to help explore possibilities and recognise their full potential. My focus is to facilitate individuals find the best outcome or solutions to their own unique issues. I do this by providing and open-minded space to feel heard, with no judgement.
My name is Jodie, I am a fully qualified, trained integrative Therapeutic Counsellor. I have experience working with Trauma, Anxiety disorders, Neurodiversity, LGBTQ+, Couples and various mental health issues. My passion is collaborating with my clients to help explore possibilities and recognise their full potential. My focus is to facilitate individuals find the best outcome or solutions to their own unique issues. I do this by providing and open-minded space to feel heard, with no judgement.
020 3910 8259 View 020 3910 8259
Photo of Samantha Cumberbatch Mbacp, MBACP, Counsellor
Samantha Cumberbatch Mbacp
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Dagenham RM8
My method of practice is Person Centred and Integrative. My sessions are client lead to suit individual’s needs. To enable clients to express themselves and feel Autonomy within the client counsellor relationship. Counselling gives you the opportunity to express difficult and challenging Experiences in our life’s. We all have our own ways of coping with whatever life throws at us and we all need to find meaning and sense of purpose to enable us to be, and to find our true selves.
My method of practice is Person Centred and Integrative. My sessions are client lead to suit individual’s needs. To enable clients to express themselves and feel Autonomy within the client counsellor relationship. Counselling gives you the opportunity to express difficult and challenging Experiences in our life’s. We all have our own ways of coping with whatever life throws at us and we all need to find meaning and sense of purpose to enable us to be, and to find our true selves.
01708 987264 View 01708 987264
Photo of Debby Ann Kirby, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Debby Ann Kirby
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Dagenham RM10  (Online Only)
Hey there welcome to the beginning of your new Journey. It takes a huge amount of courage to come to therapy and open up your mind body and soul to a another human being. I really want to assure you that by having lots of experience from both sides of the coin I can really relate on many levels. I have worked in a number of areas, bereavement, CPTSD, but am essentially a Trauma Specialist. Working with women and Their specific issues,- body confidence, image, perimenopause menopausal symptoms, relationships and Sexual and Domestic abuse call now for your free 15min consultation Take care D x
Hey there welcome to the beginning of your new Journey. It takes a huge amount of courage to come to therapy and open up your mind body and soul to a another human being. I really want to assure you that by having lots of experience from both sides of the coin I can really relate on many levels. I have worked in a number of areas, bereavement, CPTSD, but am essentially a Trauma Specialist. Working with women and Their specific issues,- body confidence, image, perimenopause menopausal symptoms, relationships and Sexual and Domestic abuse call now for your free 15min consultation Take care D x
01708 204787 View 01708 204787
Photo of Claire Douglas, BACP, Counsellor
Claire Douglas
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dagenham RM10
Hello. My name is Claire and I am an integrative counsellor and member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I offer integrative counselling. This form of therapy is a combination of different psychological theories and therapeutic approaches, which can be tailor-made depending on your needs and way of working. I work to offer you a safe, confidential, non-judgmental, and empathic environment so to speak freely about your presenting problems and work to overcome difficult obstacles in your life (whether past, present or future).
Hello. My name is Claire and I am an integrative counsellor and member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I offer integrative counselling. This form of therapy is a combination of different psychological theories and therapeutic approaches, which can be tailor-made depending on your needs and way of working. I work to offer you a safe, confidential, non-judgmental, and empathic environment so to speak freely about your presenting problems and work to overcome difficult obstacles in your life (whether past, present or future).
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jasmin Khan, BACP, Counsellor
Jasmin Khan
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E17
I specialise in ADHD, autism and neurodivergence, as well as culture & identity, grief and bereavement, work issues, and relationships.
I offer integrative therapy, neurodivergence support and cultural sensitivity. I draw on different styles of therapy and respond to your personal process. That can look like creating change when something feels amiss; uncovering what is underneath when you are feeling stuck or locked into repetitive patterns; exploration and reflection for when you are feeling confused or want to make sense of your experiences; and working with possibilities and finding new motivation, for when you want to focus on growth and strengths. I like to equip you with agency over your own development and share context as to how therapy works.
I specialise in ADHD, autism and neurodivergence, as well as culture & identity, grief and bereavement, work issues, and relationships.
I offer integrative therapy, neurodivergence support and cultural sensitivity. I draw on different styles of therapy and respond to your personal process. That can look like creating change when something feels amiss; uncovering what is underneath when you are feeling stuck or locked into repetitive patterns; exploration and reflection for when you are feeling confused or want to make sense of your experiences; and working with possibilities and finding new motivation, for when you want to focus on growth and strengths. I like to equip you with agency over your own development and share context as to how therapy works.
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Photo of Amanda Webster, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Amanda Webster
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
London SE3
Amanda has a natural connection with children and young adults, some of whom are on the autism spectrum and has been working for 3 years with various levels of severity of different autistic levels - she also has working with clients with ADHD, helping them with anxieties, Executive dysfunction and Emotional Regulation - she was diagnosed last year so gets it - Amanda works with the LGBTQAI+ community and specialises in helping those through transition. a fully trained hypnotherapist who uses hypnosis if and when a client wants to try it - we have great success with combined therapies- www.ajwebstertherapies.co.uk
Amanda has a natural connection with children and young adults, some of whom are on the autism spectrum and has been working for 3 years with various levels of severity of different autistic levels - she also has working with clients with ADHD, helping them with anxieties, Executive dysfunction and Emotional Regulation - she was diagnosed last year so gets it - Amanda works with the LGBTQAI+ community and specialises in helping those through transition. a fully trained hypnotherapist who uses hypnosis if and when a client wants to try it - we have great success with combined therapies- www.ajwebstertherapies.co.uk
020 3856 3533 View 020 3856 3533
Photo of Eliot Keirl, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Eliot Keirl
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE14
Originally from Manchester, I now live in Glasgow. I started my counselling training in London on Goldsmith University’s Graduate Certificate in Humanistic & Psychodynamic Counselling, before completing the University of Strathclyde’s MSc, Counselling & Psychotherapy. At Strathclyde I trained in Person-Centred Therapy and this forms the basis of my practice. I have experience working with a wide variety of people, I’m particularly familiar with autism and neurodiversity, and I work with all kinds of issues including depression and anxiety, as well as those vague feelings of just not being what you ought to be.
Originally from Manchester, I now live in Glasgow. I started my counselling training in London on Goldsmith University’s Graduate Certificate in Humanistic & Psychodynamic Counselling, before completing the University of Strathclyde’s MSc, Counselling & Psychotherapy. At Strathclyde I trained in Person-Centred Therapy and this forms the basis of my practice. I have experience working with a wide variety of people, I’m particularly familiar with autism and neurodiversity, and I work with all kinds of issues including depression and anxiety, as well as those vague feelings of just not being what you ought to be.
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Photo of Leonora Eddolls, MBACP, Counsellor
Leonora Eddolls
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E4
I have worked as a Relate Counsellor since 2013 specialising in couples, family and individual counselling.   As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family I developed a special interest in neurodivergence including Adult ADHD and Adult Autism.  I completed additional post graduate training to assist me in supporting individuals and couples in understanding the differences in the way the brain operates between neurodivergent and predominant neurotypes with the aim of building better and stronger relationships.
I have worked as a Relate Counsellor since 2013 specialising in couples, family and individual counselling.   As a neurodivergent individual with a neurodivergent family I developed a special interest in neurodivergence including Adult ADHD and Adult Autism.  I completed additional post graduate training to assist me in supporting individuals and couples in understanding the differences in the way the brain operates between neurodivergent and predominant neurotypes with the aim of building better and stronger relationships.
01572 494640 View 01572 494640
Photo of LORNA Aher, MBACP, Counsellor
LORNA Aher
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N17
I specialise in working with people with autism and people who care for and support someone who has autism.
As a person-centred counsellor based in north London, I believe that talking can help us feel less isolated with our problems and thoughts.    Sometimes it’s difficult to talk to family and friends; you may not wish to cause worry or distress or you may not want their advice and opinion. I provide an understanding ,  non-judgemental and safe space where you will be heard and where you can bring issues and concerns that may be preventing you from being who you want to be and where you want to be in your life. I offer an initial assessment, which will enable us to see if we connect and whether you feel comfortable within the counsel
I specialise in working with people with autism and people who care for and support someone who has autism.
As a person-centred counsellor based in north London, I believe that talking can help us feel less isolated with our problems and thoughts.    Sometimes it’s difficult to talk to family and friends; you may not wish to cause worry or distress or you may not want their advice and opinion. I provide an understanding ,  non-judgemental and safe space where you will be heard and where you can bring issues and concerns that may be preventing you from being who you want to be and where you want to be in your life. I offer an initial assessment, which will enable us to see if we connect and whether you feel comfortable within the counsel
020 8106 2102 View 020 8106 2102
Photo of Raquel Navarro Martinez, MSc
Raquel Navarro Martinez
MSc
Verified Verified
London E1
Some of the specialities that I like working with are: Autism, challenging behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, self steam, vital changes, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, relationships issues, school issues, domestic violence, gender violence.
I am a fully qualified Psychologist holding a Psychology Bachelors Degree and two Master’s Degrees. I have some working experience within different fields of Psychology in differents countries. My main motivation is working with people that has complex needs/ mental health conditions or that are simply going through a tough moment of their lives and try to somehow help them to find their way themselves, but always side by side, providing a conifidential and secure space for them to freely and withouth any judgement express whatever they want and feel.
Some of the specialities that I like working with are: Autism, challenging behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, self steam, vital changes, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, relationships issues, school issues, domestic violence, gender violence.
I am a fully qualified Psychologist holding a Psychology Bachelors Degree and two Master’s Degrees. I have some working experience within different fields of Psychology in differents countries. My main motivation is working with people that has complex needs/ mental health conditions or that are simply going through a tough moment of their lives and try to somehow help them to find their way themselves, but always side by side, providing a conifidential and secure space for them to freely and withouth any judgement express whatever they want and feel.
020 4538 4677 View 020 4538 4677
Photo of Dr Jessie Gough - Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London E10
Have you always felt different or had trouble fitting in? Perhaps you're thinking that you might have Autism/ASD, ADHD or Tics/Tourette’s, Dyslexia or a learning disability. Would you like an assessment for yourself or your child to confirm this? Or maybe you have been newly diagnosed or have traits of ASD, ADHD or Tourette’s and are looking for further information and support. I, and my small team of expert psychologists at Neurodiverseonline, offer diagnostic assessments for adults and children with Autism/ASD, ADHD, Tourette's/Tics, Dyslexia and cognitive assessments (IQ tests) / learning disability assessments.
Have you always felt different or had trouble fitting in? Perhaps you're thinking that you might have Autism/ASD, ADHD or Tics/Tourette’s, Dyslexia or a learning disability. Would you like an assessment for yourself or your child to confirm this? Or maybe you have been newly diagnosed or have traits of ASD, ADHD or Tourette’s and are looking for further information and support. I, and my small team of expert psychologists at Neurodiverseonline, offer diagnostic assessments for adults and children with Autism/ASD, ADHD, Tourette's/Tics, Dyslexia and cognitive assessments (IQ tests) / learning disability assessments.
0117 463 0477 View 0117 463 0477
Photo of Rosemary Gomes, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Rosemary Gomes
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N16
autism) and their families.
I am a compassionate and insightful mental health professional possessing a broad range of clinical experience with people with mental health conditions. I have gained this from over 10 years of working therapeutically. I am passionate about using evidence-based psychological techniques that are grounded in a tailored understanding of a person’s distress. I do this by constructing and continually refining a formulation to make sense of someone’s difficulties, drawing on both theoretical models and information that presents during therapy. I am proactive and enthusiastic about achieving successful therapy outcomes.
autism) and their families.
I am a compassionate and insightful mental health professional possessing a broad range of clinical experience with people with mental health conditions. I have gained this from over 10 years of working therapeutically. I am passionate about using evidence-based psychological techniques that are grounded in a tailored understanding of a person’s distress. I do this by constructing and continually refining a formulation to make sense of someone’s difficulties, drawing on both theoretical models and information that presents during therapy. I am proactive and enthusiastic about achieving successful therapy outcomes.
020 3962 1928 View 020 3962 1928
Photo of Mark Pharoah, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Mark Pharoah
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE9
I offer counselling and psychotherapy to individuals, to couples & for family relationships. If you are an individual seeking counselling, your issues may be related to recent events or stretch far back to past abuse or narcissistic trauma. There may be troubling thoughts, social anxiety, low mood & self-esteem, feelings of isolation, exclusion & loneliness. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, confused or numb. Maybe you suspect autism or ADHD, or can't make sense of your problems or were you fit in. As an integrative therapist, I provide online and face-to-face therapy for a range of issues both big and small over the long or short term.
I offer counselling and psychotherapy to individuals, to couples & for family relationships. If you are an individual seeking counselling, your issues may be related to recent events or stretch far back to past abuse or narcissistic trauma. There may be troubling thoughts, social anxiety, low mood & self-esteem, feelings of isolation, exclusion & loneliness. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, confused or numb. Maybe you suspect autism or ADHD, or can't make sense of your problems or were you fit in. As an integrative therapist, I provide online and face-to-face therapy for a range of issues both big and small over the long or short term.
020 3004 1059 View 020 3004 1059
Photo of Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London E1
I am a compassionate, authentic clinical psychologist with a wealth of knowledge about all things mental health. I strive to create a safe space to nurture understanding, generate acceptance, and empower change through evidence based psychological services. I only offer therapy that has a strong evidence base and that which is recommended by NICE Guidelines. This means you have access to the best psychological interventions. I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
I am a compassionate, authentic clinical psychologist with a wealth of knowledge about all things mental health. I strive to create a safe space to nurture understanding, generate acceptance, and empower change through evidence based psychological services. I only offer therapy that has a strong evidence base and that which is recommended by NICE Guidelines. This means you have access to the best psychological interventions. I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
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Photo of Harriet Sheppard, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Harriet Sheppard
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E17  (Online Only)
I offer a supportive, creative and honest environment to explore what it is like being you. Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or something you don't have a word for yet, what's really important in therapy is the relationship that we build together. We'll work collaboratively to find an approach works for you and supports you to move towards meaningful change. While I work with a wide range of conditions or concerns, I have particular experience working alongside clients with ADHD and autism, people with disabilities/ health conditions and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
I offer a supportive, creative and honest environment to explore what it is like being you. Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or something you don't have a word for yet, what's really important in therapy is the relationship that we build together. We'll work collaboratively to find an approach works for you and supports you to move towards meaningful change. While I work with a wide range of conditions or concerns, I have particular experience working alongside clients with ADHD and autism, people with disabilities/ health conditions and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
020 3835 4754 View 020 3835 4754
Photo of San Vtgotsky Wong, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
San Vtgotsky Wong
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E14
Here are some of the most common problems I can help with: - ADHD - Autism - Specific Learning Difference (SPLD) - Speech disorder - Social disorder - Depression - Anxiety - Addictive - Relationship Difficulties - Grief and Trauma Management - Stress and Anger Management - Low Self Esteem - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Post Traumatic S.
I am San Vtgotsky Wong. I am a senior Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, working for children, youth and mental health for more than 19 years. I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric h
Here are some of the most common problems I can help with: - ADHD - Autism - Specific Learning Difference (SPLD) - Speech disorder - Social disorder - Depression - Anxiety - Addictive - Relationship Difficulties - Grief and Trauma Management - Stress and Anger Management - Low Self Esteem - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Post Traumatic S.
I am San Vtgotsky Wong. I am a senior Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, working for children, youth and mental health for more than 19 years. I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric h
020 8138 8672 View 020 8138 8672
Photo of Dr Emma Taylor-Two Minds Psychology, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Emma Taylor-Two Minds Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bexley DA5
August 2024 availability: child (12+) and adult autism assessments. I’m HCPC registered with 17 years clinical experience, and an EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner. Taking the first step towards getting support can feel daunting. You want to know that whomever you entrust with your story will listen, challenge, and support you. Through developing a trusting and empathic relationship with you, I aim to support your ability to reflect, develop your resilience, and make meaningful changes.
August 2024 availability: child (12+) and adult autism assessments. I’m HCPC registered with 17 years clinical experience, and an EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner. Taking the first step towards getting support can feel daunting. You want to know that whomever you entrust with your story will listen, challenge, and support you. Through developing a trusting and empathic relationship with you, I aim to support your ability to reflect, develop your resilience, and make meaningful changes.
07480 784663 View 07480 784663
Photo of Rowan Reiss - Attuned Psychology and Psychiatry, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Attuned Psychology and Psychiatry
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London E18
I provide comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments, utilising gold standard assessment tools, as recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in a national specialist CAMHS trauma service. My work within this team, specialist inpatient and outpatient CAMHS, as well as in adult mental health services, has given me experience in supporting adults, children, and young people with severe and complex mental health difficulties. Through my training I have developed high-level knowledge of the theory and practice of both CBT including CFT, ACT, DBT and trauma-focussed CBT, and systemic approaches. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I provide comprehensive Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments, utilising gold standard assessment tools, as recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in a national specialist CAMHS trauma service. My work within this team, specialist inpatient and outpatient CAMHS, as well as in adult mental health services, has given me experience in supporting adults, children, and young people with severe and complex mental health difficulties. Through my training I have developed high-level knowledge of the theory and practice of both CBT including CFT, ACT, DBT and trauma-focussed CBT, and systemic approaches. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
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See more therapy options for Dagenham

Autism Counsellors

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.